Gambia Country Fact

Information about the country of Gambia

Basic information

• Official name: Republic of The Gambia
• Capital: Banjul
• Area: 11,300 sq km (the smallest mainland country in Africa)
• Population: About 2.5 million (2023 estimate)
• Government: Presidential republic
• Main language: English (official language), but Mandingo, Wolof, Fulani are also spoken
• Currency: Gambian Dalasi (GMD)
• Calling code: +220
• Internet domain: .gm
• Independence: 18 February 1965 (from British colony)

Geographical location and nature

1. The Gambia is located in West Africa, it is mainly surrounded by Senegal on almost all sides.
2. The main geographical feature of the country is the Gambia River, which divides the country into two parts.
3. The Gambia has a tropical climate, with distinct dry and wet seasons.
4. The country has a coastline on the Atlantic Ocean, which is important for tourism.

History and political context of the Gambia

1. The Gambia was first visited by Europeans in the 15th century, especially Portuguese sailors.
2. Britain colonized it in 1889.
3. The Gambia gained independence in 1965, and Daoud Zawara became its first president.
4. Yahya Jammeh came to power in a military coup in 1994 and ruled the country for 22 years.
5. Adama Barrow became president in 2017, marking a new chapter in democracy for the country.

Economy and main industries

1. Agriculture: The main economic sector, where peanuts, rice, wheat and fruits are produced.
2. Tourism: One of the most attractive destinations for foreign tourists due to its Atlantic coast.
3. Fisheries: The Gambia River is an important source of fishing.
4. Remittances: Gambians working abroad contribute significantly to the country economy.
5. Trade: The main exports are peanuts, fish, and animal skins.

Culture and society

The population of Gambia is made up of various ethnic groups, particularly the Mandingo, Fulani, Wulf, Jola, and Sarahuli peoples.

Religion:

Islam (about 90% of the population is Muslim)

Christianity (about 8%)

Indigenous beliefs (2%)

Language:

The official language is English, but Mandingo, Fulani, and Wulf are popular local languages.

Cultural festivals:

Tobaski (Eid ul-Adha) – This is one of the largest religious festivals in Gambia.

Roots Festival – Held to commemorate the history of the slave trade in Gambia.

Popular dishes:

Domoda – Meat and rice cooked with peanut gravy.

Benechin – A spicy dish similar to jollof rice.

Ebbeh – A soup made with cassava and seafood.

Special places and tourist attractions

Kachikally Crocodile Pool – A place of historical and religious importance.

Abuko Nature Reserve – One of the main forest reserves in The Gambia.

Banjul – The capital of the country, with historical buildings and markets.

Senegambia Beach – A popular beach for tourists.

Kunta Kinteh Island – One of the symbols of the history of the slave trade.

Challenges and problems in The Gambia

Poverty: Most people in The Gambia depend on agriculture, which is slowing down the country economic progress.

Political instability: There was a long dictatorship in the past, which hindered the development of democracy.

Health and education: Being a developing country, there are many limitations in the healthcare and education sectors.

Climate change: Rising sea levels pose a threat to the Gambia coastal areas.

Conclusion

Although Gambia is the smallest mainland country in Africa, it is historically and culturally rich. Although agriculture and tourism are the main sectors of the economy, political stability and infrastructure development are important challenges for the country. Gambia is popular for its beaches, historical sites and cultural heritage, and the country economic progress can be achieved if the tourism sector is further expanded in the future.

If you want to get to know the heritage, culture and history of West Africa closely, Gambia can be an excellent travel destination!